Winter squash are a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, also known as the gourd family, along with cucumbers, summer squash (pattypan, zucchini), and watermelon. Originally, winter squash were cultivated for the consumption of their seeds only, as they had minimal, bitter-tasting flesh; over time, fleshier, fruitier varieties were developed. For information and recipes, check out the Vermont Harvest of the Month website (http://www.vermontharvestofthemonth.org/november-2023–winter-squash.html).
Or check out our squash books here at the Charlotte Library, including the fun and fact-filled “Farm Anatomy,” a figure from which is featured below.
Charlotte Seed Library 